LAKE COUNTY — The Clear Lake Area California Highway Patrol (CHP) will be out in force during Memorial Day weekend.
The CHP maximum enforcement period begins Friday at 6 p.m. and will continue until 11:59 p.m. Monday.
The CHP reminds people headed out on the road to buckle up, designate a driver and eliminate distractions.
“We want everyone to enjoy the holiday,” Lt. Greg Baarts, Clear Lake Area commander, said, adding “but we also want everyone to be safe.”
“Make sure everyone in your car is buckled up and take your time getting to your destination. Also remember not to be distracted when you drive by using your cellular phone or other electronic device. Finally, please don”t drink and drive,” he said.
Memorial Day weekend in 2011 saw an increase in the number of people killed in crashes.
In 2011, there were 24 deaths statewide, a 41-percent increase from the previous year. Of those killed, 60 percent were not wearing a seat belt. There were also 1,367 arrests for driving under the influence statewide.
